A moment of significant change when the direction or outcome of a situation shifts decisively, often marking the transition from one phase to another.
This phrase emerged in the 18th century, initially used in military contexts to describe the moment when a battle's outcome shifted. It draws from the literal image of turning or changing direction, and gradually expanded to describe pivotal moments in any narrative or process.
The beauty of 'turning point' lies in its kinetic imagery - it suggests not just change, but the actual moment of pivoting, like a dancer spinning or a ship changing course. This makes it perfect for describing those crystalline moments when we can actually feel history or personal destiny shifting direction.
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